Strengthening defense capabilities
In Ireland, a program to strengthen the armed forces was approved back in 2022, with a significant share of funding directed toward upgrading the aviation fleet.
The country purchased two patrol aircraft and one transport aircraft, the C-295, to replace the aging Casa CN-235. The first aircraft entered service in summer 2023, and all three have now been delivered.
Response to Russian activity
Amid growing concerns over Russia, Dublin is considering upgrading two C-295 aircraft to a patrol configuration.
The move follows regular activity by Russian vessels within Ireland’s exclusive economic zone. Particular attention has been drawn to the vessel Yantar (Project 22010 Kruys), which is formally listed as an oceanographic ship but, according to observations, is used for intelligence gathering and possible mapping of underwater communications.
Concerns over undersea infrastructure
Yantar is capable of deploying underwater vehicles that could potentially damage communication cables.
This undersea activity is described as the main source of concern for Irish military planners, a risk previously highlighted by the head of the country’s naval forces, Admiral Tony Radakin.
New patrol aviation capabilities
In response, Ireland plans to equip its C295W Persuader patrol aircraft with sonobuoy deployment systems.
These are intended to be used in areas where Russian naval activity is most frequent. It is emphasized that Ireland would be employing such capabilities for the first time in practice.
Ireland has also announced €100 million in support for Ukraine to strengthen defenses against combined Russian attacks, as well as an additional €25 million to support energy supplies, reaffirming its readiness to back political support with concrete financial assistance.
In addition, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin has confirmed Ireland’s willingness to participate in ceasefire monitoring and peacekeeping initiatives in Ukraine and within the European Union, stressing that Dublin is ready to support Kyiv during peace negotiations and monitor the implementation of any agreements.